Tea

TEA

Heart of Zen is also the home of tea meditation and traditional Japanese matcha ceremony.

“A cup of tea is a cup of peace.” – Soshitsu Sen XV

Chado, The Way Of Tea

“Chado, the way of tea, is based upon the simple act of boiling water, making tea, offering it to others, and drinking of it ourselves. Served with a respectful heart and received with gratitude, a bowl of tea satisfies both physical and spiritual thirst. The frenzied world and our myriad dilemmas leave our bodies and minds exhausted. It is then that we seek out a place where we can have a moment of peace and tranquility. In the discipline of Chado such a place can be found. The four principles of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility, codified almost four hundred years ago, are timeless guides to the practice of Chado. Incorporating them into daily life helps one to find that unassailable place of tranquility that is within each of us.” – Sen Soshitsu

 

Michelle pouring tea into small white tea cups, set on a tea board in traditional gong fu style.

Tea Meditation

Tea meditation is a lovely way to begin a day of retreat or celebration with quiet respect. Centering and calming zazen meditation accompanied by the brewing and sharing of bowls of true tea welcomes you to be fully present, whatever your day may bring. Tea meditation sets the tone and resonates well into the day and days that follow.

Tea meditation is about an hour event. We set up at your location 45 min prior to the start, and require about 30 min after for clearing. We can serve up to 12 guests.

$350

Michelle kneeling in seiza on tatami, holding a hishaku, at the beginning of a Japanese tea ceremony.

Matcha Tea Ceremony

In this traditional Japanese tea ceremony, usucha, or thin tea is made by whipping hot water and powdered matcha with a bamboo whisk. In Japan, matcha has been an appreciated part of the culture for nearly 800 years. Ceremony grade matcha is made from powdered, tender shade-grown green tea leaves. Matcha is vibrant green in color and possesses many healing properties and health benefits along with a smooth, satisfying flavor. The usucha ceremony itself takes about 30+ minutes. After the ceremony, there will be time for reflection and questions.

We set up at your location an hour or more before the ceremony, and require at least 30 minutes after for clearing.

Japanese tea ceremony is an historic and respected tea ritual, offered for humanitarian fundraisers and private occasions.

 

To schedule a tea meditation or ceremony:

Call or text Heart of Zen at 231-386-7616 or email shiatsu@michelleracich.com.